Like all models of the Smart family, the Smart Forfour incorporates the typical brand features such as the visible tridion safety cell, the unusual design, the two material and two colour concept and the driving pleasure typical to Smart. The proportions of the car are also unmistakably Smart: The Smart Forfour is compact and sporty with an extremely short overhang and large wheels flush-fitted with the wings. In all variants, the body has four side doors and a tailgate.

The Smart Forfour is a car with a concept and design which set it apart from other vehicles. The Smart Forfour stirs emotions and conveys a sense of joie de vivre. However, above all, it is the first model in the small car segment to offer high-end technology to customers who are looking for a premium product. The affiliation with DaimlerChrysler and the Mercedes Car Group is particularly apparent in the range of audio, navigation and telecommunication technology and the numerous comfort and safety functions.

All Smart Forfour models are equipped with the Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) and disc brakes on both the front and the rear axle as standard. Whereas other manufacturers in the small car segment do not offer a dynamic handling control system, or if they do then only in selected models and usually at an additional charge, ESP is a standard feature in the Smart Forfour.

With a choice of two powerful engine versions and the exceptionally agile set-up of its active drive chassis, the Smart Forfour meets all the expectations of those looking for a great driving experience. Weighing in at less than 1,000 kilogrammes, the Smart Forfour offers a power/weight ratio of up to 12.2 kilogrammes per kilowatt (9 kg per bhp), which is comparable with the attractive ratio of the Smart roadster. Customers can choose between two petrol variants (1.3-litre and 1.5-litre), which come with the highly specified “pulse” design and equipment line. The Smart Forfour comes with a conventional five-speed manual transmission as standard. The newly developed, automated ”softouch plus” six-speed transmission is available as an option.

Despite its compact exterior dimensions, the interior of the vehicle conveys a feeling of spaciousness which is typical of the Smart brand. The lounge concept, which is available as an option, lends the interior of the Smart Forfour a veritable living room feel: The backrests of the two front seats can be folded down so that they are almost level with the rear seats to create a large horizontal seat surface. As with the Smart Fortwo coupé, Smart Forfour customers can choose between a plastic roof, a panoramic glass roof and an electric glass sunroof.

Like all Smart models, the Smart Forfour has a coordinated, modular safety system and constructional provisions for maximum passenger safety. In crash tests, the five-door Smart has displayed qualities which go far beyond the legal requirements.

Innovation and functionality:
Smart Forfour stirs emotions and conveys energy and a sense of joie de vivre

The Smart Forfour is the first car in its segment to combine the functionality of a small car with the emotional appeal of a young car brand. Thanks to its flexible interior, the sporty four-seater is a byword for versatility, clearly illustrating that the core brand values of innovation, functionality and joie de vivre are consistently implemented by Smart. Customers can order the Smart Forfour now from Smart dealers, and deliveries will start in October 2004.

The friendly face of the Smart Forfour is characterised by the four individual vertically mounted headlamps, positioned at an angle to each other above the air inlet. At the rear, the three-dimensional round tail lamps are typical of the Smart brand. On the Smart Forfour they are positioned above one another in the C pillar with a plastic surround. The side indicator lamps are located in the door mirror housing.

As with the Smart Fortwo coupe and cabrio a highly specified version of the “pulse” design and equipment line is available for the Smart Forfour. The pulse line offers a full range of high-quality, sporty features. With a high level of safety and functionality, the Smart Forfour pulse is the door to the Smart model world. Standard features include CD-player, electric windows for driver and front passenger, 3-spoke steering wheel with electric power steering, remote central locking including drive lock, immobiliser, Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) with Hydraulic Brake Assist, anti-lock braking system (ABS) including electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) disc brakes at front and rear, TRIDION safety cell, full-size driver and passenger airbags and side airbags in front. In contrast to European-delivered vehicles, the pulse design and equipment line has been extended for Australia to also cater to the highest comfort requirements whilst offering an attractive price-performance ratio. Air conditioning, 15-inch alloy wheels, anti-theft alarm system, hazard triangle and spare wheel are just some of the features also included in all Australian-delivered vehicles.

In Europe, a series-produced BRABUS design and equipment line will follow for the Smart Forfour at a later point in time. Whilst no decisions have been made yet for the BRABUS design and equipment line in Australia, exclusive BRABUS accessories, which underline the sportiness and individuality of the dynamic four-seater car, will be available at Smart dealers mid-2005.

The tridion safety cell of the Smart Forfour is available in three colours: Silver, black and titanium. These three colours can be combined with the bodypanels which are available in ten typical Smart colours: jack black, phat red, graphite blue, ice white, melon green metallic, starlight silver metallic, bay grey metallic, star blue metallic, flame red metallic and deep green metallic.

The lounge concept transforms the Smart Forfour into a veritable living room
The lounge concept, which is available as an option, lends the interior of the Smart Forfour a living room feel. The backrests of the two front seats can be folded down so that they are almost level with the rear seats to create a large horizontal seat surface. Lounge pads with a matching trim extend the seat backs of the rear seat bench at the sides and give them a rounded finish at the rear side doors. While the passengers in the Smart Forfour relax, they can use the foldable and axially rotatable ”twinface” multifunctional armrest located between the front seats as either a storage compartment or a cup-holder. twinface is available as an option.

The extremely flexible interior is a highlight of the Smart Forfour
The multivariable rear bench of the Smart Forfour can be adjusted by 150 millimetres in length. This maximises the space available for either the rear passengers or for luggage space. The rear seat back is divided up in the ratio 60:40 and each part can be reclined separately. If desired, comfort levels can be increased by a central armrest which is integrated into the backrest as well as by ”sofa cushions” which match the interior trim.

The standard rear seat bench is designed for two people. In the event that additional room is needed for a large amount of luggage rather than rear-seat passengers, the folding mechanisms enable you to fold the backrests forwards – either individually or together – into a horizontal position and to fold the entire rear seat system into a vertical position. In the middle position, the luggage compartment holds just under 270 litres. By folding down the rear seatbacks or folding forward the seat system, this can be increased to a volume of up to 620 or 910 litres.

Despite its compact exterior dimensions, the interior of the vehicle conveys a feeling of spaciousness which is typical of programme. The three-dimensional appearance of the instrument panel is enhanced by the spherical external-mounted air vents and the textile sections integrated in the plastic surfaces. The same effect is created by the centre console, in which an array of control elements is integrated.

The interior of the Smart Forfour is rounded off by a typical Smart steering wheel with a three-spoke design. A leather multifunctional steering wheel with two double spokes featuring push buttons is available as an option (standard on the 1.5-litre variant). These push buttons can be used by the driver to control a variety of functions – radio, CD player, mobile telephone and navigation systems – without having to take his or her hands from the wheel.

For the interior of the Smart Forfour, three fabric colours are available. A fine leather trim completes the range. The interior fabrics are available in brick red, brick grey, and stretch black.

The Smart Forfour has three innovative roof concepts
As with the Smart Fortwo coupé, customers can choose between a plastic roof, a panoramic glass roof (optional) and an electric glass sunroof (optional). The panoramic glass roof, which is available as an option, lets light into the interior of the Smart Forfour over an area of 1.4 m². In addition to the tinted transparent glass, a two-part sun-blind located on the inside of the car helps keep out unwanted sunlight.

The optional electric glass sunroof lets light and fresh air into the vehicle. It can be opened in any position at the touch of a button. And if you like a constant supply of fresh air in the cockpit but want to keep out the sunlight, you need look no further than the appropriate interior sun-blind. The taut plastic fabric does not flutter at high speeds and so does not cause disturbing noise.

Driving pleasure as a standard feature:
Power/weight ratio of the Smart Forfour on a par with the Smart roadster

With a choice of powerful engine versions and the exceptionally agile set-up of its active drive chassis, the new Smart Forfour meets all the expectations of those looking for a great driving experience. Weighing in at less than 1,000 kilogrammes, the Smart Forfour offers a power/weight ratio of up to 12.2 kilogrammes per kilowatt (9 kg per bhp), which is on a par with the extremely low ratio of the Smart roadster.

The roll angle of the Smart Forfour is also at the low level of the Smart roadster. The wide track width – 1,460 millimetres at the front and 1,445 millimetre in the rear are decisive for this – along with the sporty spring and shock absorber settings. With a total spring travel of 170 millimetres at the front and 180 millimetres at the rear, the Smart Forfour has ample reserves for coping with bumpy roads.

A choice of two powerful engine variants
Two German-built four-cylinder petrol engine versions are available for the Smart Forfour with engine capacities of 1.3 litres and 1.5 litres and power outputs of 70 kW and 80 kW respectively.

All Smart Forfour engines comply with the limit values set out in the EU4 exhaust directive. The new family of petrol engines is the result of cooperation between DaimlerChrysler and Mitsubishi. The petrol engines are produced in the MDC Power engine factory in Kölleda (Germany), which was specially constructed for this purpose.

The petrol engines offer sporty driving performance coupled with economical consumption figures. The cars accelerate from 0 to 100 kilometres per hour in 10.8 and 9.8 seconds, and the maximum speed is 180 km/h and 190 km/h. Despite these figures the petrol engines will consume less than six litres of fuel over 100 kilometres in accordance with the New European Driving Cycle.

Attractive entry price for the Smart Forfour in Australia
The Smart Forfour pulse with a 70 kW 1.3-litre engine will come onto the market in Australia at a recommended retail price of $23,900. The Smart Forfour is also available with an 80 kW 1.5-litre petrol engine for $25,900.

Exclusive Sports packages available as an option
Available on request for all Smart Forfour models, the Sports package ensures an even more dynamic driving experience and a suitably sporty look. Included in this sports package are a lowered chassis, and wheels measuring 6.5 x 16 with 205/45 R 16 H tyres. Added to this are blue-tinted windows, and a leather-trimmed three-spoke sports steering wheel and gear knob, all of which combine to lend the Smart Forfour an additional sporty touch – both inside and outside.

Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) is standard in all models
All Smart Forfour models are equipped with the Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) and disc brakes on both the front and the rear axle as standard. ESP uses selective brake intervention to stabilise the vehicle. In addition, ESP incorporates Hydraulic Brake Assist and a differential lock function. Moreover, the Anti-lock Braking System ABS including Electronic Brake-force Distribution is integrated in ESP.

ESP ensures that the Smart Forfour always follows the direction in which the driver steers, even at the stability limit of driving dynamics. In addition to closing the throttle valve, ESP also features selective brake intervention acting on individual wheels. This ensures directional stability and road adhesion when accelerating, braking and coasting.

All versions of the Smart Forfour are equipped with Electric Power Steering. This leads to a notable increase in steering comfort as well as a significant reduction in the effort required to turn the steering wheel, particularly during manoeuvring. At the same time, Electric Power Steering offers considerable advantages over conventional electro-hydraulic systems in terms of weight, required space and fuel consumption.

The lanechanger function for the indicator contributes to road traffic safety and convenience. Briefly pressing the steering column control stalk makes the selected direction indicator flash three times.

Automated six-speed transmission with kickdown and crawl function
The Smart Forfour comes with a conventional five-speed manual transmission as standard. The automated six-speed ”softouch plus” transmission is available as an option. In this case, the Smart Forfour does not require a clutch pedal, as an electric motor opens and closes the clutch. With this automated transmission, the gearshift lever also allows manual gear changing: it is pushed forwards to change up gears, and backwards to change down.

Additional ”shift paddles” integrated in the steering wheel are available as an option for the automated six-speed “softouch plus” trasnmission: In this way, the driver can keep his or her hands safely on the steering wheel when changing gear. The shift paddles are located on the back of the steering wheel at both sides – the right-hand paddle is used to change up gears and the left-hand one to change down.

Another standard feature is the kickdown function, which allows the driver to change down one or two gears spontaneously using the accelerator pedal. As well as this, the automated transmission of the Smart Forfour also features a crawl function. This makes it possible to drive slowly without pressing the accelerator pedal – not unlike an automatic transmission with a torque converter. The gentle acceleration is a useful feature for hill starts, parking and slow progress in stop-and-go traffic.

The Smart Forfour is fitted with 195/50R15 tyres mounted on factory-fitted 6x15 light alloy wheels. Light alloy wheels measuring 6.5x16, which require 205/45R16H tyres, can also be ordered as an option.

Cooperation within the DaimlerChrysler Group:
Intelligent component-sharing with an independent concept and design

The rigorous and clearly defined control of all product brands is a significant strategic premise at DaimlerChrysler. Within the group portfolio, the focus of the Smart brand – as a part of the Mercedes Car Group – is on unusual vehicles in the small car segment. The Smart developers and designers have the task of implementing the technical expertise and pacemaker function of DaimlerChrysler in the small car segment. This means that the basic demands made on all products of the Mercedes Car Group are identical, even though their characteristics may differ considerably in the individual brands.

Clear differences in terms of concept and design
These standards were also of fundamental importance in the cooperation with Mitsubishi: Despite the high value of the shared parts, Smart developed a car with a concept and design which is radically different from cars of the Mitsubishi brand.

The Smart Forfour demonstrates its affiliation with the Mercedes Car Group by offering high-end technology to customers looking for a premium car - a first in the small car segment. Functions which have been adopted from Mercedes-Benz include the multifunctional steering wheel, the rain and light sensor, the audio, navigation and communication systems and the locking system (including drive lock).

The Smart Forfour and the Mitsubishi Colt are the first non-Mercedes-Benz cars to be designed using the DaimlerChrysler electrics and electronics platform. For example this includes the Anti-lock Braking System, Cornering Brake Control, Hydraulic Brake Assist and the crawl function of the automatic transmission.

You can always tell a Smart at first sight
The Smart Forfour, too, is immediately recognisable as a member of the Smart family on account of the Smart ”family genes” it incorporates. First of all, this is demonstrated by the tridion safety cell with a consistently and effectively implemented safety concept, as well as giving the vehicle a visible frame structure. Another unique feature is the two material and two colour concept associated with the tridion safety cell, which is characterised by the use of coloured and interchangeable plastic bodypanels. Equally typical of Smart is the innovative design which offers a functional and creatively designed interior with a sense of spaciousness which belies its compact dimensions. And finally of course the unmistakable Smart driving pleasure which the Smart Forfour conveys – just like all the other vehicles of the brand.

The Smart Forfour clearly stands out from the competition
The unique Smart design pervades every inch of the vehicle – not just the complete exterior with the tridion safety cell and bodypanels, innovative roof systems, headlamps, tail lamps, doors and wheels. The interior is also unmistakably Smart, both in terms of appearance and functions: The cockpit and instruments bear the mark of the programme designers, as do all control elements and trim parts.

In the development of the front axle, the design of the anti-roll bar, shock absorbers and damper struts has resulted in a high level of active safety and exceptionally sporty driving dynamics, which puts the Smart Forfour streets ahead of other vehicles in its segment. Further equipment such as side airbags (standard) and window bags (option) make it clear that the programme Forfour meets the highest standards when it comes to passive safety.

Close cooperation in the development of shared components
The components developed in cooperation with Mitsubishi include the petrol engines built at MDC Power in Kölleda (Thuringia), the rear axle, structural components in the vehicle underbody, the manual transmission and the emission and fuel tank system. These components were also produced strictly in accordance with Smart standards in terms of technical and product specifications. The Smart Forfour and the Colt from Mitsubishi are built at NedCar in Born (Holland).

A first in the small car segment:
Smart Forfour offers high-end technology to customers looking for a premium product

With the arrival of the Smart Forfour, the small car segment is being treated to features which were formerly reserved for high-end vehicles. The affiliation with DaimlerChrysler and the Mercedes Car Group is particularly apparent in the Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) supplied as standard, the range of audio, navigation and telecommunication technology and the numerous comfort and safety functions.

Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) as a standard feature unique in this class
All Smart Forfour models are equipped with the Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) and disc brakes on both the front and the rear axle as standard. Whereas other manufacturers in the small car segment do not offer a dynamic handling control system, or if they do then only in selected models and usually at an additional charge, ESP is a standard feature in the Smart Forfour.

ESP uses selective brake intervention to stabilise the vehicle. ESP also incorporates Hydraulic Brake Assist and a differential lock function. Furthermore, the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) including Electronic Brake-force Distribution is integrated in ESP.

Multifunctional steering wheel and Smart radio multimedia navigator as an exclusive option
An optional feature available for the Smart Forfour is a multifunctional double-spoke steering wheel (standard on the 1.5-litre model) featuring pushbuttons, based on the same operating concept found in Mercedes-Benz vehicles. The multifunctional steering wheel allows the radio, CD player, mobile telephone or navigation functions to be operated safely, without the driver having to take his or her hands from the wheel. With this integrated communication control system, the Smart Forfour offers a feature typical of the premium end of the vehicle market.

The audio, navigation and telecommunications systems also correspond to Mercedes-Benz technology. The range of equipment includes the standard-fitted Smart radio five with AM/FM receiver as well as CD and telephone input for retrofittable hands-free equipment. In addition to a radio and CD drive, the Smart radio six has a key pad for dialling mobile phone numbers and two extra speakers. The Smart radio multimedia navigator is the most exclusive variant. As well as sophisticated audio and telephone functions, this option includes a navigation system with map representation on a coloured display field, not to mention a DVD drive for the navigation. This drive can also be used as a CD player.

The Smart Forfour sound experience is provided by a speaker system which consists of either two or four full-range loudspeakers, depending on the Smart radio option chosen. The converters are either installed individually in the front doors or in all four doors. The most exclusive option is a multichannel system (programme sound package) with tweeters in the mirror triangles, low-mid-range speakers in the front doors and wide-band loudspeakers in the rear doors plus an active subwoofer with 2x40 watt power output and active filters under the driver’s seat.

Sensors control light and windscreen wipers
A sensor system is available as an option for the Smart Forfour, allowing windscreen wipers and driving lights to be activated automatically (rain and light sensor). As soon as water makes contact with the windscreen, the rain sensor activates the wipers at an appropriate speed which is determined by the level of rainfall. These sensors are located in the area behind the interior mirror.

When the front windscreen wipers are activated and reverse gear is engaged, the rear window wiper switches to intermittent mode.

The lights-on function switches on the headlamps and tail lamps automatically when darkness falls. Two sensors are responsible for switching the driving lights off and on automatically. One of these registers the ambient light at a wide angle, while the other works in a narrow sensor field. The sensors switch the driving lights on when both register darkness concurrently. For example, this ensures that the lights are switched on when the car enters a tunnel, while also making sure that they remain inactive when driving through an avenue.

Smart Forfour offers a high level of comfort and safety
Once the car is in motion, the central locking system is activated. This system, which is called ”drive lock”, protects the passengers in the Smart Forfour from ”uninvited guests” attempting to enter. As soon as a door is opened from within, the central locking system releases all locks again. If desired, drive lock can also be deactivated at the touch of a button.

When the ignition is switched off at the end of a trip, the headlamps are automatically switched off as well. Conversely, turning the ignition key activates the (switched on) driving lights; however, in order to protect the vehicle power supply, not during the starting process. A further function lights up the path from the vehicle to the front door of the house, for example: Both driving lights and parking lamps are switched on again when the vehicle is locked if the lights were on before the ignition key was removed. After twelve seconds the lights automatically switch off again. Conversely, a double click on the door unlocking button activates the exterior and interior lighting of the Smart Forfour.

Compact and safe:
Passengers in the Smart Forfour feel safe – with good reason

The Smart Forfour is an unmistakable representative of the Smart brand. Its identity is underlined first of all by the two material and two colour concept together with its modular construction. The steel tridion safety cell forms the outer skin of the programme Forfour in the area of the side skirts, A-pillar, C-pillar and roof bars.

The tridion safety cell frames the passenger cell and visualises the modular construction of the Smart Forfour. Together with the plastic bodypanels, the safety cell forms the vehicle body with a design which exudes robustness and suitability for everyday use. These two characteristics also apply to the bodypanels. Furthermore, the bodypanels are environmentally compatible, as the thermoplastic material is recyclable and the coloured paint water-based and therefore solvent-free.

The proportions of the Smart Forfour are also typical of the brand and a visual documentation of the energy of the new member of the Smart family. The car is compact and sporty with its extremely short rear overhang and the large wheels flush-fitted with the wings. In all variants of the Smart Forfour, the body has four side doors and a tailgate.

Occupant protection meets the high standards of DaimlerChrysler
Like all Smart models, the Smart Forfour has a coordinated, modular safety system and constructional provisions for maximum passenger safety. In crash tests, the five-door programme has displayed qualities which go far beyond the legal requirements.

The tridion safety cell, a typical feature of the Smart brand, has been modified for the Smart Forfour. High stability of the passenger cell was achieved by the use of parallel side members running under the whole vehicle floor from the front to the rear. Together with the solid sill sections, these ensure the necessary high degree of rigidity which has a positive effect both when driving on rough roads and in the event of an accident.

In addition to the full-size airbags which come as standard for driver and passenger, side airbags are fitted in the backrests of the front seats in all models. Additional window bags can be fitted as an option. In order to reduce the risk of injuries caused by penetration of the steering column into the passenger space, the steering column is collapsible and retracts towards the front in the event of a frontal collision. The decoupling of the brake pedal when high pressure is applied to the footwell structure also greatly reduces the risk of injury in this area. Large and soft contact areas in the interior, for example in the side doors or the cockpit also ensure maximum occupant safety.

All four seats in the programme Forfour have a three-point seat-belt system and headrests. Pyrotechnic belt tensioners and mechanical belt-force limiters are provided for the driver and front passenger.

The doors made of extruded aluminium sections and aluminium sheets with plastic panelling are also a typical programme construction. Sturdy alloy side members together with solid locks and hinges ensure high resistance against intrusions, especially in the event of side crashes, and a secure connection of the door and the passenger cell.

Smart Forfour 1.3 (70 kW)
Technical data